These Power Tools Are a Green Light to Buy Used
A good toolbox isn't complete without power tools! Unfortunately, they're usually very expensive, and second-hand power tools often aren't reliable or functional. But if you're looking to save some cash, these are the only power tools you should buy used- and you won’t regret it.
Drills
Electric drills are a staple power tool, so you'll be pleased to know that they're safe to buy second-hand. Cordless drills are a particularly good choice because you don't need to worry about a faulty cord, and you can also replace the drill bits with new ones.
Circular Saws
If there's one thing we can say about circular saws, it's that a good one can last for decades. So it's absolutely worth buying a used one because you'll get years more work out of it, while saving a lot of cash at the same time.
Jigsaws
Jigsaws are the best tools to use for intricate cutting, and you'll get the job done a lot faster with an electric one! Even better, they're usually just as effective second-hand as brand new, and, like with drill bits, you can replace jigsaw blades to extend their lifelines.
Angle Grinders
Angle grinders are small but rugged power tools, so you'll likely have yours for life. They're designed to last in the toughest conditions, so they look and work just as well after being used, though it's best to stick to top-quality brands, like DeWalt and Bosch.
Nail Guns
Speaking of durability, electric nail guns should be your go-to for putting furniture together or fixing up your home. They’re specifically built to last, with few moving parts and relatively cheap replacement parts, so don’t fret about used options being unreliable or faulty.
Routers
You don’t need to be a professional carpenter to invest in a power router, but why splash out unnecessarily? Unless the previous owner has caused severe wear and tear, a used router will function perfectly, especially if it’s an older, cast-metal model.
Table Saws
Like their circular relatives, table saws are also designed to last for decades, and they also make great permanent woodwork stations. You can replace or repair individual parts quite easily, so you can make a used table saw as good as new for a fraction of the price.
Cement Mixers
Ask anybody who works in construction, and they’ll tell you how rare it is to get rid of a cement mixer. That’s because they’re built for continuous hard work and rarely rust or require new parts. Used mixers are cheaper, but that hardly affects their performance.
Rotary Tools
What can’t you do with a rotary power tool? You can sand, cut, grind, polish, and drill, all with one device! What’s more, you can also rely on these tools to work well second-hand, and older models are still compatible with newer accessories, too.
Power Washers
If you own a power washer, we guarantee you’ll be using it all the time! Luckily, that means they’re built with longevity in mind, and with a few new frames and motors, you can completely refresh a used power washer and maintain it for years to come.
Tile Cutters
An electric tile cutter might not be an everyday type of tool, but there are times when you’ll be glad you own one! We recommend making it a second-hand model because they experience very little wear and tear, and you can easily replace the blades.
Sanders
Sanders are the unsung heroes of woodworking power tools, and there’s a great used market for them with plenty of variety. They’re easy to clean up and even easier to maintain, so you’ll get near-new performance for a modest price. What’s not to like?
Electric Screwdrivers
If you regularly work with tools, an electric screwdriver is a must. Like rotary tools, their removable parts are cheap and easy to replace, so you can buy any screwdriver from a previous owner and modernize it, with minimal ongoing maintenance required.
Power Planers
Power planers are masters of precision, so you need one that does the job immaculately. Luckily, they’re absolutely worth buying used because all you need is a flat bed and a sharp blade, and both of those can easily be fixed on an older device.
Heat Guns
You should never play with fire, so get a heat gun instead! Don’t be wary of buying them second-hand either because they’re actually super simple tools that rarely fail. If they do, it’s easy to diagnose the issue and fix it, rather than replacing the gun with a new one.
Impact Wrenches
Sure, you could buy an ordinary wrench, but an impact wrench will do all the tough work for you. They’re just as rugged as their non-electrical versions, too, with equally durable removable parts. We recommend corded models for the best longevity.
Chainsaws
Chainsaws are intimidating, but they’re surprisingly simple to use, so long as you follow proper safety precautions! They’re also designed to be rebuilt throughout their lives, and some older, second-hand models are actually more powerful than the new modern versions.
Hammer Drills
Hammers and drills are usually separate tools, but with a hammer drill, you get two for the price of one. Usually, that means paying extra, but not if you buy used. They’re some of the most robust power tools, so they’ll last, and you can replace any worn components.
Screw Guns
If you’re tired of hammering screws in by hand, get a screw gun instead. We recommend checking out the second-hand market first because they’re designed for repetitive use and perform like new, even after years of use by a previous owner.
Dust Extractors
Our final power tool that’s worth buying used is a dust extractor, and these can be seriously life-changing. It’s just a bonus that second-hand extractors are just as heavy-duty and high-capacity as new models; just don’t forget to empty and replace the bags!
